NFL insider reveals Cleveland Browns' unique process for hiring a head coach, as their search rolls into a third week
It's no secret that the Cleveland Browns are one of the most analytics-driven organizations in football. Apparently, that mindset also applies to how they conduct their head coach interviews.
The NFL Network's Tom Pelissero detailed the Browns' unique interview process during an appearance on the Rich Eisen Show. According to the insider, it's a process that includes tests and essays.
“The Browns' search process is unlike any other in the NFL, and it plays to certain types of candidates," Pelissero said. "They are a data-driven operation in Cleveland. They spend an extraordinary amount of time gathering data on their coaching candidates.
"You're talking about taking a personality test. You're talking about writing an essay. You're talking about completing homework assignments between the first and second rounds of interviews. It plays toward the types of candidates that they have in the mix. Which is very smart people."
Pelissero went on to detail even further just how in depth the Browns "data gathering" goes.
"Questionnaires, a multi-part essay, and a personality test. And additional homework assignments if you get through the first round and into the second round," Pelissero added.
On the heels of a week where two candidates bowed out of taking second interviews with Cleveland, it's fair to wonder if their unconventional approach is what drove Mike McDaniel and Jesse Minter away from continuing to pursue the Browns job. That's something Pelissero also noted during the conversation.
Later, he added that this isn't anything new for Cleveland and that, apparently, this is how they've handled interviews for other positions. It could also serve as a major reason why their process is rolling into a third week with more interviews expected following conference championship weekend.
As things stand right now, Cleveland has had second, in-person interviews this week with their current defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz (Monday), Baltimore Ravens OC Todd Monken (Tuesday) and Jacksonville Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski (Friday).
They're expected to host Los Angeles Rams pass game coordinator Nate Scheelhouse on Monday next week after his team plays in the NFC Championship game on Sunday. The coming days will be very telling as to who emerges as Cleveland's top option to become the organization's 23rd head coach.
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